José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, former President of the Spanish Government from 2004 to 2011, faced questioning at the Audiencia Nacional regarding allegations of his involvement in the public rescue of Plus Ultra, a Spanish airline. The airline received 53 million euros from the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the rescue approved by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in 2021.
Zapatero Denies Influencing Plus Ultra Rescue
Zapatero categorically denied any influence over the rescue during his nearly three-hour testimony, responding to inquiries from Judge José Luis Calama. Sources present during the hearing indicate that this marked the first time a former Spanish president appeared as an accused party in court.
Legal Proceedings and Restrictions
- The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor requested the withdrawal of Zapatero’s passport.
- A requirement for him to appear bi-weekly before the court was also proposed.
- The judge denied these precautionary measures, citing Zapatero’s public visibility as a factor.
After the session, Zapatero reiterated his innocence, asserting, “I have been accused of grave crimes that I did not commit. I have always conducted myself with decency.”
Details of the Testimony
Zapatao acknowledged knowing businessman Julio Martínez Martínez since 2011. Martínez is a key figure in the investigation. The former president mentioned that he entered into a verbal consulting agreement with Martínez’s company, Análisis Relevante, which lasted until 2020. He claimed that his work was legitimate, stating that he was paid for consulting services over five years.
However, investigators suspect that Análisis Relevante acted as a shell company for receiving benefits from influential connections. A court order has blocked 490,780 euros that Zapatero received from the consultancy as part of this investigation.
Connections and Allegations
The inquiry also involves the establishment of a company in Dubai, allegedly linked to Zapatero and structured to collect a 1% commission on the government aid provided to Plus Ultra. Zapatero denied any knowledge of such an arrangement or involvement in the Dubai company.
- He confirmed ongoing collaboration with the Chacón brothers, Venezuelan nationals suspected of money laundering related to his activities.
- Zapatero refuted any claims regarding discussions of gold or oil purchases.
Questions About Jewelry
Zapatero was also questioned about jewelry found in his office, initially planned for discussion during the hearing. His lawyer sought to postpone this section to gather more evidence on the jewelry’s origins, but the judge denied the request.
Conclusion of the Hearing
After his statement, Zapatero did not have to return to court the following day as had been arranged. The judge indicated that further investigations were ongoing and did not warrant immediate action against him.
This unprecedented case has attracted considerable media attention, highlighting the complex interplay of politics, business, and legal scrutiny in Spain.
